UNIONDALE, NY - SEPTEMBER 12: Matt Donovan #46 of the New York Islanders skates against the Boston Bruins during a rookie game exhibition at Nassau Coliseum on September 12, 2011 in Uniondale, New York. The Bruins defeated the Islanders 8-5. less

UNIONDALE, NY - SEPTEMBER 12: Matt Donovan #46 of the New York Islanders skates against the Boston Bruins during a rookie game exhibition at Nassau Coliseum on September 12, 2011 in Uniondale, New York. The ... more

His first game back, against Hartford -- Bridgeport's opponent on the road Friday night, the first of three-in-three leading into the Christmas break -- Donovan earned two assists and changed the look of the power play.

The next day in Albany, a turnover led to a goal.

"Risk/reward can be enticing," Pellerin said. "You're going to make those high-skill plays, but you can also be burned. Everybody's level is a little different."

If nothing else, this is the time of year when Donovan's seasons seem to go into overdrive.

Last year at this time, Donovan had 11 points in 25 games. He scored two goals Dec. 19 against Albany, the start of 37 points in his last 50 games. Two years ago, he had 12 points in 32 games on New Year's Day. He scored 33 more in the last 40 games.

"I guess you could say (second halves have been stronger)," Donovan said. "It's just one of those things where you get more and more comfortable."

They hope that comfort brings those points to the NHL, but there is a bit of comfort here, where he played two seasons and the tail end of another.

"Worst comes to worst, I'll stay here and continue to help the team win," Donovan said. "I love being here with the guys, and I love winning."

NEW CLARK: Bridgeport signed forward Andrew Clark to a pro tryout to add depth up front. Clark was seventh in the ECHL with 26 points, leading Bridgeport's affiliate in Stockton (Calif.).